What are you specifically trying to accomplish? How are you measuring your results? Have you announced your objective to anyone else? Are the results realistic? Is there an end date?
Pretty straightforward questions...right? Well...more times than not, when people embark on a fat loss/weight loss journey these questions are not answered. Why? Let's look at it this way...would you jump in a car and simply start driving without any destination in mind? Probably not. If you have somewhere to go, typically, you'll know specifically where you are going, approximately how long it will take, what you are headed out to do, and whether or not it can be done in the allotted time. Now let me ask a question...why on earth would someone start a fitness program without any set direction? Sounds kind of silly, huh? It happens all of the time and is one of the biggest (if not the biggest) reasons for the failure of a fitness program.
I'll make it really easy for you...SET YOUR GOALS BEFORE STARTING A FAT LOSS/WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM!!! Research has proven that individuals that set SMART goals are more likely to get the results that they seek.
S=Specific. When setting a goal, make sure that it is quantifiable (i.e. lose 20 pounds, fit into a size 4, 32" waist, etc.). If you simply have a goal of "lose some weight", there is no purpose.
M=Measurable. Make sure you take pictures, perform circumference measurements, have someone take your body fat. Some of these can be very intimidating, but you MUST go for it!
A=Announced or Agreed-Upon. Let those who are supporting you know exactly what you are going to accomplish. Those people will keep you motivated.
R=Realistic. Make sure that your goals are realistic! DO NOT SET YOURSELF UP FOR FAILURE! Weight loss can be very volatile, be realistic. If you are unsure about what is realistic, contact me...I can help you out. If not me, talk to a competent fitness coach, they should steer you in the right direction.
T=Time-Based. Deadlines...we all have them. Whether it is a project at work, a wedding date, or a competition, deadlines are inevitable. They are a fantastic motivator!
Ultimately, it is up to you to define whether or not your goals will be met. I am simply presenting you the tools needed to succeed. You, and ONLY YOU, have to have the courage to reach into the toolbox and start building. I look forward to being part of your fitness education and challenge you to reach farther, dream bigger, and believe in yourself.
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Hi Coach! You are posting really great information! With your help, I've lost 15 pounds since October. Your posting about setting SMART goals made me realize that I need to work a little smarter to lose my last 11 pounds. I'm going to chew on this information--it's non-fattening, right? :-) --and come up with a revised plan that incorporates all five S M A R T components. Thanks!!
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